CEDAR FALLS, Iowa — The Oakland Golden Grizzlies men's basketball team (5-6, 1-0 HL) fell to Northern Iowa (8-2, 0-0 MVC),75-63, at the McLeod Center in Cedar Falls on Saturday. Despite strong performances in the paint, where Oakland scored 34 points, and forcing 17 turnovers, the team was unable to overcome a halftime deficit. The Panthers capitalized on 12 turnover points and maintained a lead throughout the second half.

"Part of this is the schedule: with who we've played, then we go on the road again now. We played that league game, then an exciting win against Toledo -- we're going through [final semester] exams, now we are here trying to play a top-25 mid-major team on the road -- you're not going to be your A-game every game." said head coach Greg Kampe. "Offensively, we struggled tonight, part of that was losing Nassim [Mashhour], but it was the first game and we are figuring out our rotation now. Lineups are different, our rotation is different, the minutes are going to be different. Part of that is the learning experience."

Junior Isaac Garrett led the team with 12 points and recorded a double-double by collecting a season-high total of 10 defensive rebounds, contributing significantly to the team's efforts under the basket. Senior Brody Robinson, who has now recorded at least 12 total points in 8 consecutive games, also contributed 12 points and added five assists while making two steals. Senior Ziare Wells, now recording double digits in two consecutive games as he picked up his seventh start this season, scored 11 points and tallied two steals in the game. Fifth-year Brett White II finished with 11 points, converting three three-pointers and securing five rebounds in the paint.

Oakland initiated the first half with a fast-paced dunk by Wells, assisted by fifth-year Michael Houge, setting the pace early. Despite multiple lead changes, Oakland maintained a competitive edge through rebounding and timely three-pointers at the arc, including White's shot at 2:18 that briefly put them ahead.

Throughout the first 20 minutes, Oakland capitalized on fast breaks and bench contributions, yet faced challenges with turning over the ball. As the half drew to a close, UNI surged with a series of offensive rushes to end the half ahead, leading by eight.

Oakland opened the second half with a productive stretch, consistently scoring inside the paint. Garrett was pivotal, contributing with his 12 points and a significant defensive rebound during the early minutes. Despite this effort, the Panthers extended their lead with their perimeter shooting and free throws, maintaining control of the scoreboard.

As the half continued, the Black and Gold's White II hit a crucial three-pointer, narrowing the deficit. The team managed to string together some defensive stops and capitalize on turnovers, with Robinson adding a fast-break layup late in the half. However, UNI sustained their lead with timely baskets and closed the non-conference game at their advantage.

The Golden Grizzlies are back in Horizon League action with a road trip to Northern Kentucky, Wednesday Dec. 17 at 7 p.m. ET.


How to Follow Oakland Men's Basketball: For complete information on Oakland Men's Basketball follow the team on X at @OaklandMBB and head coach Greg Kampe at @KampeOU. The team is also on Instagram and Facebook.